Dodd with a group of advocates from Autism Speaks.Senator Dodd authors the Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook Wild and Scenic River Study Act, which would assign the federal Wild and Scenic status to the Farmington River and Salmon Brook. Because of Dodd’s efforts, the river is approved for Wild and Scenic designation on November 27.

Senator Dodd becomes an original cosponsor of the Combating Autism Act of 2006, which is signed into law on December 19. The bill authorizes almost $1 billion over five years for screening, education, research, early intervention and referrals for treatment of autism spectrum disorders.

Dodd speaking at a press conference about premature births. Dodd cosponsors the bipartisan Sober Truth on Preventing Underage Drinking Act, which strengthens federal, state and local efforts at prevention underage drinking through increased coordination, public awareness and research. The bill is signed into law on December 20.

In response to the high number of premature births and the medical issues associated with it, Senator Dodd signs on as an original cosponsor to the Prematurity Research Expansion and Education for Mothers who deliver Infants Early (PREEMIE) Act, which is signed into law on December 22.